Reviewer's Choice

As the world descends into chaos, the survivalist movement grows every larger. "Living on the
Edge: A Family's Journey to Self-Sufficiency" is the story of one family's decision to live a year
of self-sufficiency and frugality and existing 'off the grid'. From creating power for a tent and
then a cabin with a combination of solar panels, car batteries, generators, and oil; to heating and
cooking with a woodstove; finding ways to earn money in an insular and impoverished rural area;
securing water in a desert for a family of six and their animals; erecting fences for privacy and
security; raising chickens, goats and ducks for food; avoiding bears, bobcats, skunks, and other
unwanted critters; to home schooling the kids, "Living on the Edge: A Family's Journey to
Self-Sufficiency" is both an absorbing personal account and an instruction manual. Exceptionally
well written from first page to last, "Living on the Edge: A Family's Journey to Self-Sufficiency"
is very highly recommended reading, would make an enduringly popular addition to community
library collections, and is also available in a Kindle edition ($9.99).

Part memoir, part crafter's reflection, and part philosophy, A Handmade Life: In Search of
Simplicity is by teacher, builder, designer, and writer William S. Coperthwaite examines the
possibilities of simplifying one's life. Living on a homestead on Maine's north coast, he explores
the message of individuals as Henry David Thoreau, Emily Dickinson, and Helen and Scott
Nearing. "The trap we are in is that we want to emulate the rich. Their factories produce for us,
and we are their buyers, the consumers. If we refused to buy junk, they would have to produce
better quality... We now have a class of people living according to a consumption pattern that
exceeds that of the monarchs of previous centuries and that is rapidly devouring the world's finite
resources." A handful of color photographs of beautiful Maine scenery intersperse these
thoughtful and inspirational writings on how to improve the quality of one's life by freeing
oneself from endless consumerism and clutter, and focusing more on community, spirituality,
handcrafts, the joys of the outdoors, and helping others in their hour of greatest need. Highly
recommended.

The Environmental Studies Shelf

At Pyramid Lake chronicles the history of Pyramid Lake, one of the largest lakes in the Great
Basin desert oasis. Pyramid Lake existed for thousands of years before explorer John Fremont
discovered it in 1844; it served as a spiritual and survival resource for the native Paiute, who
depended upon the cui-ui fish (which is unique to the lake and now an endangered species). As
ranchers and farmers settled the land, native peoples and farmers who needed the water to raise
cattle had conflicting interests, which came to a head in the Paiute War of 1860. The lake's
continued existence was in jeopardy for a time; but tribal claims, court decisions, and the rise of
the environmental movement preserved it. At Pyramid Lake is more than an environmental and
legal history, however; it's also a cultural history, chronicling how the lake has drawn artists,
poets, sport fishermen, tourists, Hollywood filmmakers, and more to its shores. A list of
references and an index round out this thoughtful account, highly recommended especially for
public library shelves.

Utah became the 45th state admitted to the Union on January 4, 1896. Utah is the 13th-largest,
the 33rd-most populous, and the 10th-least-densely populated of the 50 United States. Utah has a
population of about 2.9 million, approximately 80% of whom live along the Wasatch Front,
centering on Salt Lake City, leaving vast expanses of the state nearly uninhabited. Utah is
bordered by Colorado to the east, Wyoming to the northeast, Idaho to the north, Arizona to the
south, and Nevada to the west. It also touches a corner of New Mexico in the southeast. The
collaborative work of geologists Felicie Williams, Lucy Chronic, and Halka Chronic "Roadside
Geology Of Utah" is now in a completely updated and expanded second edition. This informed
and informative, profusely illustrated, 416 page compendium provides a detailed presentation of
the varied geology of the state with all of its canyons, arches, breaks, mountain ranges, and desert
basins. Very highly recommended for academic library Geology Studies reference collections,
"Roadside Geology Of Utah" would also serve well as a supplemental travel guide for anyone
touring the Utah landscape.

The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

Spiritual Guidance Across Religions: A Sourcebook for Spiritual Directors & Other
Professionals Providing Counsel to People of Differing Faith Traditions lives up to its title as a
solid reference for chaplains, ministers, counselors, and anyone else tasked with providing
interfaith spiritual guidance. Contributions from a vast array of experts in different belief
traditions discuss core concepts to remember when offering counsel to individuals who believe in
everything from Native religions to faiths originating in China, India, or the Middle East,
different Christian denominations, and more. The plurality of faiths in today's America makes
Spiritual Guidance Across Religions absolutely invaluable, worthy of the highest
recommendation for spiritual directors and professionals in the field.

The Christian Studies Shelf

A tradition is a belief or behavior passed down within a group or society with symbolic meaning
or special significance with origins in the past. Common examples include holidays or
impractical but socially meaningful clothes (like lawyer wigs or military officer spurs).
Traditions can persist and evolve for thousands of years. The word "tradition" itself derives from
the Latin tradere or traderer literally meaning to transmit, to hand over, to give for safekeeping.
While it is commonly assumed that traditions have ancient history, many traditions have been
invented on purpose, whether that be political or cultural, over short periods of time. "Why
Church History Matters: An Invitation to Love and Learn from Our Past" by Robert F. Rea
(Professor of Church History, Lincoln Christian University, Lincoln, Illinois) is a 235 page
compendium that presents perspectives (past and present) on what a tradition is with respect to
the Christian church and Christian identity. A work of impressively presented theological and
historical scholarship, "Why Church History Matters: An Invitation to Love and Learn from Our
Past" is enhanced with the inclusion of 'Recommended Resources for Ministry'; twenty-four
pages of Notes; a Name and Subject Index, and a Scripture Index, making it an essential and
valued addition to pastoral, community, and academic library Christian Studies reference
collections and supplemental reading lists.

Lent is a solemn religious observance in the liturgical calendar of many Christian denominations
that begins on Ash Wednesday and covers a period of approximately six weeks before Easter
Day. The traditional purpose of Lent is the preparation of the believer through prayer, penance,
repentance of sins, almsgiving, atonement and self-denial. Augustine of Hippo (13 November
354 - 28 August 430), also known as Saint Augustine was an early Christian theologian and
philosopher whose writings were very influential in the development of Western Christianity and
Western philosophy. Compiled by academician and Christian scholar Agnes Cunningham, "Lent
and Easter Wisdom From St. Augustine" is a 128 page compendium of scriptures, prayers, and
St. Augustine's commentaries, all focused on the subject of Lent, its meaning and readings, along
with readings suitable for Easter celebrations within the Christian community. Very highly
recommended reading for clergy and lay readers alike.

After decades of being mired in what seemed like never ending scandals and internal disputes
over issues ranging from the dealing with the ever worsening shortage of qualified priests and the
role of nuns, to ecclesiastical pedophilia and Catholic banking practices, the church was in dire
need of a man like Pope Francis. Still another evidence of this reform minded prelate is his latest
book, "The Church of Mercy", a 168 page compendium comprised of his speeches, homilies, and
papers presented during the first year of his papacy. Inspired and inspiring, thoughtful and
thought-provoking, "The Church Of Mercy" should be considered mandatory reading for
Catholics and is very highly recommended to the attention of non-Catholics as well. It can only
be hoped that "The Church of Mercy" will be followed by similar collections year by year as
Pope Francis continues in his much needed ministry. It should be noted that "The Church of
Mercy" is also available in a hardcover edition (9780829441680, $22.95), a Kindle edition
($9.99); and in an MP3 CD edition ($15.76).

The Judaic Studies Shelf

Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson (April 5, 1902 OS - June 12, 1994 NS), known as the
Lubavitcher Rebbe or just the Rebbe was a prominent Hasidic rabbi who was the seventh and last
Rebbe (Hasidic leader) of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement. He was fifth in a direct paternal line
to the third Chabad-Lubavitch Rebbe, Menachem Mendel Schneersohn. In January 1951, a year
after the death of his father-in-law, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneersohn, he assumed the
leadership of the Lubavitch movement. He led the movement until his death in 1994, greatly
expanding its worldwide activities and founding a worldwide network of institutions to spread
traditional religious practices among the Jewish people. These institutions include schools,
kindergartens, synagogues and Chabad houses. He successfully built a network of more than
3,600 institutions in over 70 countries and 1000 cities around the world. During his lifetime,
some of his followers considered him to be the Jewish Messiah, but Rabbi Schneerson mildly
discouraged such talk. He was recognized as a contributor to Jewish continuity and religious
thought, and recognized by both the Orthodox and Reform movements, as the pioneer of Jewish
outreach. "Turning Judaism Outwards: A Biography of the Rebbe, Menachem Mendel
Schneerson" by Rabbi Chaim Miller is a 592 page, impressively detailed, chronologically
organized and deftly written account of the life and accomplishments of one of the most
influential Rabbis of the 20th Century. Enhanced with the inclusion of a twelve page
bibliography of cited works, ninety-six pages of notes, and a comprehensive index, "Turning
Judaism Outwards: A Biography of the Rebbe, Menachem Mendel Schneerson" is very highly
recommended reading and a critically important contribution to academic library Judaic Studies
and 20th Century Jewish Biography reference collections and supplemental reading lists.

Rabbi Francis Nataf presents Redeeming Relevance in the Book of Numbers, continuing his
close scrutiny of the first five books of the Bible. The Book of Numbers contains parables about
individuals, the greater community, religious leadership, abuse of authority, communication, and
much more. Accessible to readers of all background seeking to better study and understand the
Bible, Redeeming Relevance in the Book of Numbers is thought-provoking, insightful, and
highly recommended for personal or scholarly religious study. "...the Torah took risks in
presenting a pagan story right in the middle of one of its five books. It risked giving legitimacy to
Bil'am's pagan ways... But the Torah is not afraid of the truths that rival claims possess; it would
rather give us limited exposure to these claims so that we can better defend ourselves against
them. Ignorance may be bliss, but it is not an effective strategy in the long term."

The Buddhist Studies Shelf

Wake Up and Laugh: The Dharma Teachings of Zen Master Daehaeng is an anthology of
Dharma talks given by Daehaeng Kun Sunim, including question-and-answer sessions with
students. "Questioner 7: Who created Buddha? / Kun Sunim: All sentient beings did. /
Questioner 7: It's often said that 'I' doesn't exist, but if that's true, then what is this that's speaking
to you now? Kun Sunim: It's said that 'I' doesn't exist because in all the things we do there's no
trace of a fixed and unchanging 'I.' When you came here, did you carry you past footsteps with
you? You just walked over here; there wasn't some fixed consciousness involved in each step.
Speaking is like this too, isn't it? Nothing is fixed or unchanging." A brief glossary and an index
enhance this surprisingly accessible collection. Wake Up and Laugh is a choice pick not just for
students and practitioners of Buddhism, but also for anyone curious to learn more about Zen
philosophy. Highly recommended.

Daisaku Ikeda (born January 2, 1928, Japan) is the founder and current president of Soka Gakkai
International (SGI), the international offshoot of Soka Gakkai, a Nichiren Buddhist lay
association which has, by its own account, more than 12 million members. Part of the 'Soka
Gakkai History of Buddhism' series, "The Living Buddha: An Interpretive Biography" by
Daisaku Ikeda is ably translated into English for an American readership by Burton Watson. This
150 page compendium provides a biographical portrait of Gautama Buddha (who is also known
as Siddhartha Gautama or simply the Buddha). Gautama Budda was a sage on whose teachings
Buddhism was founded. He was born in the Shakya republic in the Himalayan foothills sometime
between the sixth and fourth centuries and taught primarily in northeastern India. His teachings
and precepts went on to become one of the major philosophies of the world and stands alongside
Judaism, Christianity, and Islam as a spiritual framework for how life should be lived. Very
highly recommended reading for students of Buddhism, as well as community and academic
library Buddhist Studies reference collections, "The Living Buddha: An Interpretive Biography"
is also available in a Kindle edition ($8.69).

The Architecture Shelf

Based on Stephen Chung's weekly television show, "Cool Spaces!: The Best New Architecture"
by Stephen Chung and Sun Joo Kim is a profusely illustrated, 120 page compendium showcasing
outstanding architectural examples of art spaces, library spaces, performance spaces, and healing
spaces. Of special note is the inclusion of Robert ivy's 'The Case for Cool Spaces'. A masterpiece
of targeted architecturally focused commentary, "Cool Spaces!: The Best New Architecture" is
informed, informative, thoughtful, and thought-provoking, making it a highly recommended
addition to professional, community, and academic library Architectural Studies reference
collections and supplemental reading lists.

"Mississippi Current Cookbook: A Culinary Journey Down America's Greatest River" is a
fabulous river-regional culinary tour of the varied celebrated tastes of specialty dishes from
different parts of the vast length of the Mississippi and surrounding areas. Chapters divide the
Mississippi into three distinct regions: the Upper Mississippi River Region or Headwaters, from
St. Paul, Minnesota to Quincy, Ill.; the Middle Mississippi River Region, or Twain Country,
(from Hannibal, Missouri, to the confluence with the Arkansas River, and The Lower
Mississippi, from Beale Street to the Bayou, or Memphis, Tenn., to the Gulf of Mexico.
Although there are many distinctive regional dishes associated with parts of each area, the author
clarifies that menus and dishes from different regions can be mixed or matched. Every chapter
presents a variety of different entertainment oriented menus, from casual to formal with many
tempting steps and stops in between. A plethora of tantalizing color photos of completed recipes
and menu specialty ingredients adorns each chapter. From Mississippi pi Mud Cookies to
Crawfish Boiled with Sea Salt and Dill Crowns, with Mock Turtle Soup and Peppadew Pimento
Cheese on Fried Green Tomatoes, these recipes celebrate Mississippi regional ingredients with
lashings of Southern hospitality. Chef Regina Charboneau has an exquisite cuisine style all her
own, which definitely helps to take these unusual but traditional-style recipes to a whole new
level of excitement. For example, who can resist the idea of Deviled Eggs with Crabmeat and
Wasabi Caviar? Or how about Smoked Catfish Tamales with Jalapeno Green Salsa? Chef
Charboneau is the culinary director of the American Queen, a luxury paddlewheel boat that offers
travel experiences on the Mississippi River, and has many other accomplishments that revolve
around distinguished epicurean experiences, particularly with Southern accents. "Mississippi
Current Cookbook" is further enhanced with five or more pages of Techniques and Basics,
including recipes for Oven-Smoked Tomatoes, Preserved Lemon Vinaigrette, and Herbsaint
Hollandaise, and a handy Source Guide for special ingredients. "Mississippi Current Cookbook"
is an indulgent experience, a guilty pleasure that deserves to be savored and shared with
friends.

Dan Whalen writes the influential culinary blog 'The Food in My Beard' and has published more
than 700 recipes. Now he has produced "Stuffed: The Ultimate Comfort Food Cookbook: Taking
Your Favorite Foods and Stuffing Them to Make New, Different and Delicious Meals", a
beautifully illustrated, 208 page compendium of thoroughly 'kitchen cook recipes' that range from
Cobb Summer Rolls; Parmesan Truffle French Fry Stuffed Burger; Mac and Cheese Chile
Rellenos; and Jalapeno Popper Dog; to Vietnamese Burritos; Chicken Tikka Masala Ravioli;
Pork Stuffed Tofu with Noodles; and Pasta Salad Stuffed Tomatoes. Of special note is the recipe
for Turducken that will make 20 servings for a special dining occasion. Of great value for the
novice kitchen chef is the section dedicated to Basics and a comprehensive Index. "Stuffed: The
Ultimate Comfort Food Cookbook: Taking Your Favorite Foods and Stuffing Them to Make
New, Different and Delicious Meals" will prove to be a popular addition to any personal,
professional, family, or community library cookbook collection. It should also be noted that
"Stuffed: The Ultimate Comfort Food Cookbook: Taking Your Favorite Foods and Stuffing
Them to Make New, Different and Delicious Meals" is also available in a Kindle edition
($8.89).

A 'surprise cake' is a cake that has some kind of filling or pattern within it that won't be revealed
until the cake is cut and served. "Hidden Surprise Cakes" by Angela Drake is an 80 page
compendium showcasing thoroughly 'kitchen cook friendly' recipes for twenty different surprise
cakes. Ranging from a Rainbow Cake, to a Hidden Hearts Cake, to a Tropical Sunrise Cake, to a
Pinata Party Cake, these are confections and desserts that will make any dining occasion very
special and memorable. Of special note are the recipes for a Birthday Surprise Giant Cupcake
and a Christmas Tree Wreath Cake. Unique and truly exceptional, "Hidden Surprise Cakes" will
prove to be an enduringly popular addition to personal, professional, family, and community
library cookbook collections.

The Magic of JELL-O: 100 All-Time Favorite Recipes lives up to its title as a compendium of
tasty dessert treats that can be quickly and easily made with the popular JELL-O (R) brand
gelatin, or pudding. From Alaskan Pudding Pies (a tasty cookie sandwich treat) to Layered Fruit
Dessert, Cherry Topped Eggnog Ring, Lemon Cheese Pie and more, The Magic of JELL-O is
filled with celebratory delights that will appeal to confection connoisseurs of all ages. An
excellent addition to any dessert cookbook library!

Compiled by Shay Ola (founder of The Rebel Dining Society, a creative food events company
dedicated to fine dining, "Death by Burrito: Mexican Street Food To Die For" is a beautifully
illustrated, 160 page compendium showcasing some of the best Mexican cuisine that any
ordinary American kitchen cook can produce just by following the step-by-step recipe directions.
The dishes range from Gordita Sliders; Tamales; Baja Fish Tacos; and Carne Asada Burritos; to
Baked Hominey; Chicharron with Gooseberry Compote; Drunken Beans; and Candied Pumpkin
Ice Cream. Of special note and value to the novice are the clear instructions on the basics of
making a burrito, an entire section on Cocktails, and twelve different recipes for salsas and
moles. "Death by Burrito: Mexican Street Food To Die For" is a highly recommended, core
addition to personal, professional, family, and community library Ethnic Cookbook reference
collections.

Pizza is an oven-baked flat bread typically topped with a tomato sauce, cheese and various
toppings. The modern pizza was invented in Naples, Italy, and the dish has since become popular
in many parts of the world. Many varieties of pizza exist worldwide, along with several dish
variants based upon pizza. Pizza is cooked in various types of ovens, and a diverse variety of
ingredients and toppings are utilized. Compiled by Dimitri Syrkin-Nikolau (founder of Chicago's
Dimo's Pizza), "Revolutionary Pizza: Bold Pies that Will Change Your Life...and Dinner" is an
impressively illustrated, 160 page compendium showcasing the versatility and variety of pizzas
that, by following the clear, step-by-step recipe instructions provided, and enable even the most
novice of kitchen cooks to turn out world class pizzas of all kinds. The pizzas range from The
BBQ Porkabella; Skyline Chili; Jamaican Jerk Chicken; and Italian Beef; to Gyro; The Stoner
Kid; Cheesy Potato; and Pumpkin Pie. Of special note are the recipes for a Spinach and Bean
Quesadilla; Quacamole Burrito; and Chilaquiles. Also available in a Kindle edition ($8.89),
"Revolutionary Pizza: Bold Pies that Will Change Your Life...and Dinner" is an exceptional and
outstanding addition to personal, family, and community library cookbook collections.

Hardcover and spiral bound so as to durably and accessibly lay flat upon a kitchen table or
counter while following recipe directions, "The Cast Iron Gourmet" by culinary expert Matt
Pelton is a profusely illustrated, 152 page compendium of information and recipes for preparing
dishes using a Dutch Oven. Every aspect is covered including buying, seasoning, cleaning, and
storing a Dutch Oven. Not to be missed is the chapter dedicated to tools for and cooking
techniques with a Dutch Oven. There are Dutch Oven recipes for breakfasts, breads, soups,
stews, chilies, main courses, side dishes, and even desserts. From Matt's Cinnamon Rolls; Apple
Cinnamon Bread; Chicken Taco Soup; to Jambalaya; Cheesy Veggies; and Strawberry Rhubarb
Pie, all of the recipes comprising this outstanding and highly recommended addition to personal
and community library cookbook collections are as palate pleasing and appetite satisfying as they
are kitchen cook friendly and menu planning inspirational.

The Needlecraft Shelf

A quilt is a type of blanket, traditionally composed of three layers of fiber: a woven cloth top, a
layer of batting or wadding, and a woven back, combined using the technique of quilting. A quilt
is distinguishable from other types of blanket because it is pieced together with several pieces of
cloth. "Dazzling Diamond Quilts" compiled and edited by quilting expert Carolyn S. Vagts is a
fully illustrated manual comprised of ten do-it-yourself diamond quilt needlecraft projects that
are so well presented that even the most novice of quilters will be able to turn out quality quilts
that are as practical as they are beautiful. Featuring 'tear out' patterns, "Dazzling Diamond Quilts"
is not appropriate for community library needlecraft collections, but it is ideal and
enthusiastically recommended for personal quilting instructional reference collections.

The Computer Shelf

In the computer security context, a hacker is someone who seeks and exploits weaknesses in a
computer system or computer network. Hackers may be motivated by a multitude of reasons,
such as profit, protest, challenge or enjoyment. The security of computerized information storage
is of paramount concern for individuals, companies, and government agencies. One of the best
ways to defend against hackers is to test computer security by attempting to penetrate it.
"Penetration Testing: A Hands-On Introduction to Hacking" is a 528 page instruction manual on
how to do just that by learning how to crack passwords and wireless network keys with
brute-forcing and wordlists; test we applications for vulnerabilities, use the Metasploit
Framework to launch exploits and write Metasploit modules; automate social-engineering
attacks; bypas antivirus software, turn access to one machine into total control of the enterprise in
the post-exploitation phase. Also available in a Kindle edition ($28.56), "Penetration Testing: A
Hands-On Introduction to Hacking" is a complete and comprehensive manual that should be a
part of every computer security instructional reference collection.

Synopsis: "Riders Of The Shadowlands" is a 312 page anthology comprised of ten outstanding
tales of the old wild west. These stories of hard men in a hard land include: Killer; The Ways of
Vengeance; Fear in the Saddle; The Return of the Arapaho Kid; Witch; Dark Purpose; The
Happy Death; Bad Blood; Endless Trail; and the title piece, Riders Of The Shadowlands. Author
H. A. DeRosso has a demonstrable talent for crafting memorable characters and deftly woven
plots with surprising twists and turns that will keep his appreciative readers riveted attention
from beginning to end. This large print edition is especially and highly recommended for
community library Large Print fiction collections in general, and fans of stories about the
American western frontier in particular.

The Crafts Shelf

A fund (and potential profitable!) hobby is making jewelry in your own home and in your spare
time. "Finding Style: How to Use Today's Versatile Jewelry-Making Components" by jewelry
crafts expert Irina Miech is a fully illustrated, 96 page instruction guide for twenty-seven
do-it-yourself projects making use of new jewelry-making products, including two-part rivets,
filigree bezels, flat leather, locking crimps, texture hammers, and stamps. Informed, informative,
and thoroughly 'user friendly', "Finding Style: How to Use Today's Versatile Jewelry-Making
Components" will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to any dedicated jewelry making
hobbyist's reference shelf and would make an invaluable addition to community library Crafts &
Hobbies collection.

The Humor Shelf

The collaborative work of Pauline Witchurch and Evelyn Beilenson, "Aging With Attitude:
Better Than Dying With Dignity" is an 88 page compendium comprised of some of the best
'laugh out loud' witticisms showcasing senior citizen responses to life. One of my favorites is
'The upside of senility...getting to embarrass your children.' Presented as full color cartoons with
the saying on the left and the cartoon drawing on the right, "Aging With Attitude: Better Than
Dying With Dignity" is a very highly recommended entertainment and would prove to be an
enduringly popular addition to personal and community library collections!

Synopsis: "Warning! This Product Contains Nuttiness: A Fun Look at the Bizarre World in
Which We Live" is a 312 page compilation comprised of 139 newspaper columns by Sam
Venable in which he offers insightful and witty commentary on the foibles of human nature, and
an impressive diversity of subjects drawn from the environmental, social, political, cultural, and
peculiarities of modern life. Armed with a genuine talent for pointing out that the 'emperor has
no clothes', "Warning! This Product Contains Nuttiness" documents Sam Venable as a modern
day Will Rogers and is very highly recommended and entertaining reading and will prove to be
an enduringly popular addition to community library collections.

The Biography Shelf

James Enos "Jim" Clyburn (born July 21, 1940) is the U.S. Representative for South Carolina's
6th congressional district, serving since 1993, and the Assistant Democratic Leader since 2011.
He was previously House Majority Whip, serving in that post from 2007 to 2011. He is a
member of the Democratic Party. The district includes Florence, Sumter and large portions of
Columbia and Charleston. "Blessed Experiences: Genuinely Southern, Proudly Black" is the
autobiography of a remarkable politician who candidly tells the story of how he rose from
humble beginnings in Sumter, South Carolina, during the Jim Crow-era, to become the third
highest-ranking Democrat in the House of Representatives, U.S. Congressman. James E. Clyburn
has led an extraordinary life as revealed in "Blessed Experiences", where he tells in his own
inspirational words how an African American boy with no advantages in a time of strict racial
segregation in the American South was able to 'beat the odds' and achieve personal and
professional success. Inspired and inspiring, "Blessed Experiences" is informative reading and
highly recommended for both community and academic library Black Studies and American
Biography collections. It should be noted that "Blessed Experiences" is also available in a Kindle
edition ($21.69).

The Travel Shelf

A cornucopia of 'where to go, what to see, what to do' information for vacationing in America,
"Discover USA" is a profusely illustrated, 512 page, compact compendium showcasing the 'must
see' highlights of the most interesting places America has to offer. An invaluable guide for
setting up itineraries for everything from a day trip to a full blown vacation, "Discover USA" is
thoroughly 'user friendly', informed and informative that has drawn upon local experts who know
there own area's offerings for sightseeing travelers. From where to eat, what to do, where to go,
and how to get there, "Discover USA" is a complete resource under one cover. Of special note
for novice travelers is the "How to Use This Book" instructive advisory and a comprehensive
Index. "Discover USA" is enthusiastically recommended for personal, family, and community
library travel guide reference collections.

The Graphic Novel Shelf

Nearly a decade before "The Hunger Games", there was the novel Battle Royale, about a dark,
alternate-timeline Japan where the autocratic government spreads fear among its own people by
kidnapping junior high students and pitting them against each other in a brutal, publicly televised
deathmatch, from which there can be only one survivor - at most. This wildly successful horror
story struck a chord deep in readers' hearts worldwide, and has been adapted into movie and
graphic novel formats. Battle Royale: Angels' Border is a black-and-white, manga (Japanese
graphic novel) side-story to the original Battle Royale saga. The pages are presented right-to-left
so that they can be read "unflipped", as the artists originally created them. While the deadly
"experiment" rages, Yukie Utsumi and her female friends lock themselves in a lighthouse,
hoping against hope for a way to survive together. As time passes, the death toll mounts, and
paranoia begins feed upon each of the desperate girls. Memories of everyday life under a strict,
oppressive government - the friendships formed in spite of constant "secret police" spying,
government detentions, ambiguous "suicides", and the faintest whispers of possible resistance -
interweave with the murderous present in this unforgettable "must-read" for anyone captivated
(or terrified!) by Battle Royale. Highly recommended. Due to extreme violence and subtle
references to lesbianism, Battle Royale: Angels' Border is not appropriate for young children; it's
for older teen or adult readers.

The Audiobook Shelf

Kiss and Tell is the unabridged audiobook adaptation of a novel in the "Sisterhood" series.
Elements of mystery and intrigue abound as Myra Rutledge and her best friend Annie de Silva
discover whispers of shady dealings. Anonymous emails steer them toward a potential scheme in
the works at a local assisted living facility. Emanuel Mackline is the financial big dog behind the
gigantic complex, but there's a dark side to his wealth - a Ponzi scheme on the verge of collapse!
Myra and Annie recognize the situation demands more justice than the law of the land can
deliver, but they'll need help oppose a remorseless billionaire! Exciting to the end, Kiss and Tell
is sure to prove a popular lending library pick. 8 CDs, 9 hours 28 min.

The unabridged audiobook version of the second novel in the "Nantucket Brides" trilogy, For All
Time is a story where love strikes as swiftly as a magic spell. Toby Wyndam has a special gift;
she can distinguish Graydon from his identical twin brother. Could she be his true love,
according to Graydon's family lore? Yet as heir to the Lanconian throne, Graydon is duty-bound
to marry a noblewoman. Graydon resists this arrangement, asking Toby to help him hide on
Nantucket for a week; in exchange, he offers to assist her with planning novelist Victoria
Madsen's elaborate wedding. Can the mysterious power of Nantucket itself bend the inflexible
rules that conspire to keep Toby and Graydon apart? Tender, charming, and delightful, For All
Time is highly recommended. 10 CDs, 11 1/2 hours.

Have a Nice Guilt Trip is the unabridged audiobook rendition of the mother-daughter dual
memoir by Lisa Scottoline and Francesca Serritella, touching upon suburban life, family-fostered
guilt, puppies, dating, (the listener is left to judge whether the puppies or the dates are easier to
train) and much more. Warm and charming, Have a Nice Guilt Trip embodies the lasting love of
the bond between mother and daughter... and perhaps stirs a little reminder to call home every
once in a while! Highly recommended. 6 CDs, 6.5 hours.

Bestselling thriller author Clive Cussler (whose work with the real-life NUMA has discovered
more than sixty long-lost ships) and Graham Brown present Ghost Ship, the unabridged
audiobook adaptation of a new novel in an action-packed series featuring Kurt Austin and the
daring NUMA team. In Ghost Ship, Kurt suffers an injury while trying to rescue the passengers
of a sinking yacht. When he comes to, Kurt cannot trust his own, disjointed memories of the
experience. Was the yacht abandoned, or did he see a friend drown? Kurt's search for the truth
leads him dangerously close to an international human trafficking ring! Exciting from beginning
to end, Ghost Ship will not disappoint fans of the genre or fans of Cussler's keen attention to
detail. 10 CDs, 12.5 hours.

A terrific 'steam punk' science fiction story by an extraordinarily talented and original author,
"The Clockwork Century: Boneshaker" by Cherie Preist is brought vividly to life within a kind of
'theatre of the mind' listening experience under the professional direction of Colleen Delany and
a talented cast of more than a dozen actors. Deftly incorporating a range of digital sound effects
and musical underpinnings, "The Clockwork Century: Boneshaker" is set in an alternate history
where the American Civil War is still ranging after eight years and the once promising town of
Seattle, Washington has been blighted with a poisonous gas breached into the city by an
infamous machine tunneling underneath it. The gas kills some and produces a ravenous walking
dead with others. A giant wall was hastily built around it to keep the gas and the 'Rotters' inside
the city's confines. But there are still humans left in there too. A young man named Zeke finds his
way into this forbidden and lethal city in search of the truth about his father and his grandfather.
His mother follows with the help of the rogue captain of a Zeppelin. High adventure, plot twists,
a peculiar survival communities underground, an infamous scientist, must all be negotiated if
long hidden truths are to be revealed. Clearly, Graphic Audio is a premier producer of technically
flawless productions. "The Clockwork Century: Boneshaker" is enthusiastically recommended
for science fiction enthusiasts and community library audio book collections.

The slogan used by GraphicAudio is 'a movie in your mind'. This superb production of Tim
Waggoner's fantasy novel, "Nekropolis: Meet Matt Richter, Private Eye Zombie" provides the
listener with a true 'theatre of the mind' experience from beginning to end. Matthew Richter (a
zombie private investigator who is slowly decaying), teams up with Devona (a half-woman,
half-vampire hybrid), in order to find a potent artifact before it can be used to destroy the balance
of power in Nekropolis -- created in another dimension to serve as a refuge for Earth's vampires,
ghouls, witches, wizards, demons, devils, ghosts, and pretty much anything and everything that
ever went 'bump in the night'. This technically flawless, 8 hour, 7 CD, theatrical production
includes a gifted cast of twenty-five, digital sound effects, and cinematic style music. A truly
extraordinary entertainment, "Nekropolis: Meet Matt Richter, Private Eye Zombie" is very highly
recommended and would make an enduringly popular addition to personal and community
library audio book collections.

Three unabridged audiobook adaptations of Magical Cats Mystery series will enrapture
ailurophiles and mystery lovers alike. In "Curiosity Thrilled the Cat" (9780553399349, 9 CDs, 10
1/2 hours), small-town librarian Kathleen Paulson adopts two cats into her home, and is surprised
to learn that her new pets have a supernatural affinity, in addition to their love of catnip. Their
quasi-magical powers may be just what she needs to save her reputation and protect her town,
when the specter of murder arises! In "Copycat Killing" (9780553399400, 8 CDs, 10 hours), a
sudden rainstorm almost destroys the local artists' co-op - and one controversial mask-maker
drowns in his basement. Paulson works with attractive detective Marcus Gordon, as well as her
magically observant cats, to uncover the killer! In "Sleight of Paw" (9780553399370, 9 CDs, 10
1/2 hours), Kathleen makes it her personal mission to find out who murdered an old woman
beloved by virtually the entire town. Finding a cold-blooded killer can be dangerous work; it's
fortunate that she has help of both the human and feline persuasion! All three are excellent
choices for fans of the genre, and sure to be popular public library picks.

The Marvel Universe of superheros and supervillains is brought to life with "The Ultimates:
Against All Enemies", a technically flawless production that features a talented cast, original
theme music, and digital sound effects. Alex Irvine's story has Captain America, Iron Man Tony
Stark, Shield Director Nick Fury, Hank 'Giant Man' Pym, Thor, and other members of the
Avengers, pitted against shape shifting aliens bent on the destruction of the human race. "The
Ultimates: Against All Enemies" is a 'must' for the legions of dedicated Marvel fans and creates a
truly memorable, genuine, and thoroughly entertaining 'theatre of the mind' experience from
beginning to end. This 5 CD, 6 hour, science fiction action/adventure isn't just a simple audio
book -- it is a fully fleshed out radio play and would prove to be a much appreciated addition to
any school or community library audio collection.

Performed by veteran television and film actor David H. Lawrence XVII, Hangman is the
unabridged audiobook of a dark thriller about the return of a serial child killer. Homicide cop
Abbie Kearney knows the story behind a cruel serial killer who targeted teenage girls, but she
never expected to be the one trying to track him down after a prison break. As the body count
rises, could breaking the boundaries of the law be the only way to ensure justice? Hangman is
gruesome, suspenseful, and chilling to the very end. 9 CDs, 10 1/2 hours.

Award-winning Irish-American band RUNA presents Current Affairs, an album drawn from
working-class folk songs, salacious family history, Celtic tradition, and the ties that bind culture
across continents. A balance between traditional elements and creative experimentation, Current
Affairs is especially recommended for world music collections and fans of modernized Irish and
Celtic audio. The tracks are "The Banks Are Made of Marble" (3:09), "The Wife Of Usher's
Well" (4:46), "The Hunter Set" (5:55), "Henry Lee" (3:25), "Black River" (3:53), "Aoidh Na
Dean Cadal Idir" (5:14), "The False Knight Upon The Road" (4:38), "Ain't No Grave" (4:34),
"Who Will Sing Me Lullabies" (3:20), "The Ruthless Wife" (4:59), "Land Of Sunshine Set"
(5:46), "Rarie's Hill" (4:18), and "The Last Trip Home" (5:06).

Aphasia is an album of electronic music by talented artist Grey Filastine. Harmonic vocals blend
with the software-enhanced pitch and rhythm, creating an extraordinary experience that strives to
reach beyond sensory sound. The songs of Aphasia form the core of Filastine's audiovisual
mapping performance, as debuting at France's largest Festival, Les Vieilles Charrues. Aphasia is
especially recommended for music lovers yearning to experience something uniquely different!
The tracks are "Requiem 432", "Sixty Cycle Drum", "Murka", and "Drone Silences."

Louie Gonnie is a singer of the Dine people (also known as "Navajo"), raised amid the songs and
prayers of the Native American Church. Gonnie's talent shines through in his latest album,
Spiraling, Ascending with Prayer, an anthology of spiritual and introspective songs. Listeners of
all faiths and backgrounds can draw inspiration from the heartfelt love, guidance,
encouragement, and reverence in this beautiful, timeless music. Highly recommended. The tracks
are "Into the Spectrum" (12:20), "Upon Tranquil Waters" (9:07), "Listlessness of Winter Skies"
(9:12), "Ethereal Accolades" (11:51), "Council of the Fallen" (8:42), "Tears in the Sky" (12:14),
"May Your Dreams Always Come True" (3:02), and Nagamowin" (3:05).

Los Angeles-based singer Ricardo Lemvo and the band Makina Loca present La Rumba SoYo, a
multinational album featuring music recorded in four different nations (U.S., Canada, France and
Angola), offering a free-wheeling blend of African (Congolese) and Cuban music. Some of the
songs are their take on traditional folk tunes; others are original creative expressions, not
necessarily beholden to any one language (one song, "Dikulusu" is in three languages:
Portuguese, Kikongo and Kimbundu). The result is a multicultural blast from beginning to end!
The tracks are "Santo Antonio Do Zaire" (4:08), "Dikulusu" (4:49), "Rumba SoYo" (4:52), "Kari
Kuyeye" (4:55), "E Moyo" (4:50), "Padre George" (4:45), "Bolero Medley VF" (5:52), "El
Caburnacho" (4:30), "Simone CM" (4:45), "Tudia Tunua" (4:37), and "Samba Luku Samba
(Rumba Remix)" (4:20).

Reggae artists Christopher Vrenois ("Christos DC") presents Long Road, an original album about
the winding course of life, and how important it is to remember and help others while traveling
this long road. A shadow of jazz and downtempo permeates through the soulful lyrics, which
embody emotional fortitude and respect. Long Road's uplifting message transcends genres to
speak freely to all listeners; highly recommended. The tracks are "Just Talk to Me ft. Kenyatta
Hill", "Lovely Lady", "Same Old Sing Along", "Another Day", "Living in the Past", "Circles ft.
Hugh Hall", "So Hard To Say", "10,000 Miles From Home", "Vasilikos ft. Anastasios Vrenios",
"True Love", "Long Road", "Helpless", "Did You Really Get It?" and "Keep On Pushing".

The DVD Shelf

Tiny: A Story About Living Small
A film by Merete Mueller and Christopher Smith
First Run Features
630 Ninth Avenue, Suite 1213
New York, NY 10036
$24.95 www.firstrunfeatures.com

Tiny: A Story About Living Small is a documentary about six people living in ultra-small homes,
some no bigger than a parking space, often built on wheels to bypass building codes or zoning
restrictions. These "tiny homes" have the benefits of simplifying one's life, reducing impact on
the environment, and saving money. Tiny examines the design innovations that make these
homes liveable, and the personal stories of the occupants who choose to eschew material
consumerism and "live small." Bonus material includes an interview with the filmmakers, a
behind-the-scenes segment, and bonus scenes with shorts. An intriguing, thought-provoking
documentary, highly recommended especially for public library collections. 62 min.,
closed-captioned.

David Suchet (well-known for his starring role in productions of Agatha Christie's Poirot) hosts
In the Footsteps of St. Paul, a documentary quest to better understand one of early Christianity's
most notable figures - St. Paul the apostle. St. Paul was controversial in his own time; today he is
remembered as a former persecutor of Christians who converted to the faith through a divine
miracle, and was crucial in transforming it from a small Jewish sect into a world-wide faith. St.
Paul is believed to have traveled 10,000 miles by foot across the Roman Empire, let alone sea
travel; Suchet seeks to retrace St. Paul's journey, and learn more about the man behind the
missionary by talking to archaeologists, scholars, clerics, and local citizens. As enlightening as it
is fascinating, In the Footsteps of St. Paul is highly recommended. 2 episodes, 108 min.,
widescreen, SDH subtitles.

Licensed for public performance, Drones in My Backyard is a brief, wry DVD inspired by the
day a drone appeared in filmmaker Alan Snitow's backyard, hovering over his head. Not so much
a documentary as is a free-form meditation and reflection on the role of drones in war,
surveillance, and perhaps everyday life (if that day in Snitow's backyard becomes a more
widespread occurrence). An unforgettable short film that beautifully captures an increasingly
surreal aspect of the twenty-first century, Drones in My Backyard is highly recommended. 13
min., SDH captions.

Volume one of a three-volume training series, The Yoga of Awakening: Body-Mind Flow is a
two-DVD set that instructs the viewer in foundational Vinyasa flow yoga practices, and shows
how to use yoga for stability, relaxation, balance, and greater connection between the mind and
the body. Both DVDs can be used either at the beginner level or for a full-strength advanced
workout. An excellent way to learn the discipline of yoga to enhance both physical and spiritual
well-being, The Yoga of Awakening: Body-Mind Flow is highly recommended. 2 DVDs, 3 hours
13 min.

The Automotive Shelf

Hot rods are typically old, classic American cars with large engines modified for linear speed.
Roadsters were the cars of choice because they were light, were easy to modify, and could be
bought for a low price. The term became commonplace in the 1930s or 1940s as the name of a
car that had been "hopped up" by modifying the engine in various ways to achieve higher
performance. "Hot Rod Gallery: A Nostalgic Look at Hot Rodding's Golden Years: 1930-1960"
by automotive expert Pat Ganahl is a 192 page compendium showcasing the history of the hot
road. Enhanced with 357 photos and an informed commentary, this thirty year history of a
particular genre of automotive excitement is very highly recommended for car enthusiasts and
community library collections.

In classical antiquity, an oracle was a person or agency considered to interface wise counsel or
prophetic predictions or precognition of the future, inspired by the gods. As such it is a form of
divination. The word oracle comes from the Latin verb orare "to speak" and properly refers to the
priest or priestess uttering the prediction. Oracles were thought to be portals through which the
gods spoke directly to people. In this sense they were different from seers who interpreted signs
sent by the gods through bird signs, animal entrails, and other various methods. Now available
for a new generation of metaphysical studies students and practitioners of oracular divination is
the beautifully illustrated, highly recommended, 50 card deck called "Whispers Of Love".
Enhanced for the novice with an informative guidebook, these cards are suitable for doing
readings on specific questions, relationship issues, and everyday guidance.

The Business Shelf

It's long been accepted that to succeed as an entrepreneur it is necessary to 'find a need and then
fill it'. But how to you identify a product or service and the customer base for that product or
service? "Lean Customer Development: Building Products Your Customers Will Buy" by
product manager Cindy Alverz (Director of user Experience and Product Design for the
Microsoft company Yammer) is a thoroughly 'user friendly', 240 page compendium that is
basically a complete course of 'how to' instruction under a single cover. Readers will learn how to
validate or invalidate a hypothesis by talking to the right people; learn how to conduct successful
customer interviews play-by-play; become able to detect a customer's behaviors, pain points, and
constraints; turn interview insights into Minimum Viable Products to validate what customers
will use and buy; and adapt customer development strategies for large companies, conservative
industries, and existing products. Exceptionally well written, informed and informative, ""Lean
Customer Development: Building Products Your Customers Will Buy" is strongly recommended
for personal, professional, corporate, community, and academic library instructional Business
Studies reference collections and supplemental reading lists. It should be noted that ""Lean
Customer Development: Building Products Your Customers Will Buy" is also available in a
Kindle edition ($11.49).

Shopper marketing is a business term that means properly understanding how consumers behave
as shoppers, in different channels and formats, and applying this information to the benefit of all
stakeholders -- brands, consumers, retailers and customers. Shopper marketing is not limited to
in-store marketing activities. Shopper marketing must be part of an overall integrated marketing
approach that considers the opportunities to drive consumption and identifies the shopper that
would need to purchase a brand to enable that consumption. These shoppers need to be
understood in terms of how well they interpret the needs of the consumer, what their own needs
as a shopper are, where they are likely to shop, in which stores they can be influenced in, and
what in-store activity influences them. Shopper marketing requires supply chain partners to
smoothly integrate complex sets of marketing and sales tools, in order to engage shoppers, build
brand equity, and persuade shoppers when they move into "shopping mode." Internally, it also
demands deeper coordination of Research & Development, marketing innovation, operations,
logistics, and distribution. It isn't easy, but it offers remarkable, proven results that are virtually
unobtainable any other way. The collaborative work of Daniel J. Flint (Professor of Business,
Department of Marketing and Supply Chain Management, University of Tennessee, Knoxville),
Chris Hoyt (President of Hoyt & Company), and Nancy Swift (shopper marketing strategist and
consultant), "Shopper Marketing: Profiting from the Place Where Suppliers, Brand
Manufacturers, and Retailers Connect" is a 320 page manual that is a complete and
extraordinarily well presented instruction course. Of special note is the chapter on 'What Do
Academics Actually Do and How Do They Think?'. Each individual chapter is enhanced with an
Endnotes section. Very highly recommended for professional, business, corporate, and academic
Business Studies reference collections, it should be noted that "Shopper Marketing: Profiting
from the Place Where Suppliers, Brand Manufacturers, and Retailers Connect" is also available
in a Kindle edition ($85.49).

The American History Shelf

Farms, Factories, and Families
Anthony V. Riccio
Excelsior Editions
c/o State University of New York Press
State University Plaza
Albany, NY 12246-0001
9781438452319 $29.95 www.sunypress.edu

Farms, Factories, and Families: Italian American Women of Connecticut explores the cultural
history and ongoing contributions of Italian-American working women in the state of
Connecticut. Some farmed; some started their own businesses; some worked alongside men in
factories and sweatshops, and many contributed to organizing labor unions. From Connecticut's
pioneer days to the turn of the twentieth century, to when World War II required more women
then ever to serve on the production lines while the men went off to war, Farms, Factories, and
Families balances societal trends with individual voices and personal testimonies, such as "In
those days, there were no restrictions on the men with the women. Some had ten, twelve kids,
and they made sure they kept their wives pregnant. That was their lifestyle, not that they
necessarily wanted big families. Wives carried children for twelve, fourteen years. And that was
common... That's how the man lived, not like today where we plan children." A handful of
vintage black-and-white photographs complement this welcome contribution to Connecticut
history shelves.

...So Help Me God: A History of American Inaugural Bibles is a unique history that scrutinizes
the inaugurations of all of America's Presidents, and the Bibles used therein, from founding
father George Washington to Barack Obama. "In 1967, Reagan was inaugurated Governor of
California. He took his oath of office as soon as possible to get his predecessor, Edmund Brown,
out of office. No other Governor of California had exercised this option before, and many believe
it was because of the Reagan's belief in astrology, particularly Mrs. Reagan's." A thoroughly
researched account, accessible to readers of all backgrounds, ...So Help Me God is an
extraordinary publication, shedding light on a little-studied aspect of key moments of American
history.

The Political Science Shelf

Twilight of Abundance: Why Life in the 21st Century Will Be Nasty, Brutish, and Short is a red
alert about challenges that could result in widespread famine and death in the next several
decades. Chapters discuss why the concept of "peak oil" is quite real, and fracking has only
delayed the problem of energy scarcity; why world population growth will potentially overwhelm
food supplies; the dangers of incoming climate change and weather-related disaster (emphasizing
that despite current arguments over "global warming", the Earth is actually due for another ice
age in the near future), and why the populous, authoritarian state of China may be driven to start
a war with the United States. The reader may disagree with some of the proposed
countermeasures to protect America against lean times ahead, such as fostering the undeveloped
nuclear technology of thorium molten-salt reactors, or going to war with Iran in order to put
China on the defensive (given how America's wars tend to consume its limited resources, from
tax dollars to human lives, this latter tactic is especially questionable from a strategic perspective,
let alone an ethical/moral perspective), but the underlying warning - that today's era of peace and
prosperity is ending simply due to the inescapable laws of supply of demand - needs to be heeded
immediately.

The Fishing Shelf

Terry J. Wiest, a fisher of salmon and steelhead with over 38 years of experience and author of
countless published fishing articles, distills his expertise in Float-Fishing for Salmon &
Steelhead, a practical-minded guide for float-fishers of all skill and experience levels. Striking,
full-color photography illustrates Wiest's many tips, tricks, and techniques, from recommended
knots with clear diagrams, to advice for optimal bait and location selection, to advanced
strategies for reeling in the big catch! An easy-to-use index rounds out this sport fishermen's
treasury.

The Woodworking Shelf

Civil War Woodworking, Volume II is a hands-on resource designed especially to help
woodworkers create authentic replicas of Civil War-era furniture and wooden camp gear. Such
items will be especially useful to Civil War reenactors, but anyone interested in practical items
that embody a little bit of America's history will enjoy the featured projects, from shipping crates
to folding camp stools and tables to noisy "battle rattles" and more. Exhaustive, step-by-step
instructions and full-color photography on almost every page (except for the black-and-white
Civil War era-images of objects that inspire these projects) distinguish this woodworker's
treasury. Also highly recommended is Hamler's previous hobbyist guide, "Civil War
Woodworking: 17 Authentic Projects for Woodworkers and Reenactors" (9781933502281,
$24.95).

The Memoir Shelf

Grief Sucks... But Love Bears All Things is a memoir recounting author Gayle Taylor Davis'
struggle with tremendous grief, after her beloved husband of 32 years, and the father of her two
children, died of a heart attack. Davis reveals the darkest moments of her grief, from days of
crying to grim thoughts of suicide. Yet Grief Sucks... is ultimately an affirmation that recovery is
possible from the most terrible of pain, how a seemingly mortal wound can slowly heal. Passages
of her poetry intersperse her story of loss and the long, hard journey to acceptance, in this
unforgettable and personal true-life story.